Auto-on motion detectors

[FakeName]

Several years ago, I had a motion-detecting wall switch that would automatically turn the lights on when I walked into the garage.

Worked a treat.

But when I added a few more lights to the circuit, it failed, and a cursory exam of the rating told me why- it was simply not rated for that much current.

I replaced it with another occupancy sensing switch, but it will only keep the lights on, not turn them on. I must hit the button when I walk in.

Now I realize it's far simpler and makes more sense to use a regular switch, so don't feel the need to scold me for my choices. But I would like to have the lights go on automatically when I enter the room (and I'd like a fanfare of trumpets, but I'll settle). I'll be using 6 (or so) 4-light t8s at 32 watts per bulb (small garage).

Yes, I've googled around, but have not found the auto-on switch with a large enough rating- anybody seen one?

 

[rlitman]

Most I've seen are rated for 600W, but 1000W units do exist. Most are a separate switch/sensor though, and don't go in the switch box. You still keep a regular switch for override.
At work, we have ceiling mounted motion sensors (ultrasonic type), that would probably fit your need, except that our lighting is 277V, so the exact model we're using isn't going to help you.

 

[bd8134]

Would http://store.leviton.com/Power-Occupancy-Sensor-347VAC-OSP15-R30/dp/B004EF6GNW?field_availability=-1&field_browse=2532185011&field_product_site_launch_date_utc=-1y&id=Power+Occupancy+Sensor+347VAC+OSP15-R30&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Ccolor_map%2Cprice%2Csize_name&searchNodeID=2532185011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12#.UBgCr2FDySo work?
I have the Leviton IR motion sensors to control bathroom extractor fans and they work well.
My wall mounted garage door openers have IR sensors which switch on the door opener light. Mine are Liftmaster. You could use those if the light output for entering the garage is sufficient and then use a switch for the tubes.

 

[Falcon67]

These typically do not work with flo lights using electronic ballasts or with CFLs. You will need to find/buy a sensor that is rated for that - read $$.

http://store.leviton.com/Infrared-Occupancy-Coverage-Available-ODS10-ID/dp/B00700RJFW?field_availability=-1&field_browse=2532185011&field_product_site_launch_date_utc=-1y&id=Infrared+Occupancy+Coverage+Available+ODS10-ID&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Ccolor_map%2Cprice%2Csize_name&searchNodeID=2532185011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12#.UBg9G6PfXTo

 

[Sureshot]

Could you not rig up a relay?

I had a similar switch. Worked great if just going in to take the car out as my opener buttons were not by the walk in door and that would leave the door open to long in the winter. I also liked that a light came on automatically if someone else went in the shop. I had mine run to a single incandescent bulb over the door.

 

[Falcon67]

Could you not rig up a relay?

I'm sure you could if you wanted to go to that much trouble. My post was more a warning to read the labels carefully. I have a nice motion switch in the drawer that doesn't work with anything we have in the house right now. The wife asked for it, I got it but didn't think about the e-ballast issue. When presented with the cost of a proper motion switch, the reply was "use the wall switch".

 

[FakeName]

Thanks, everyone.

Think I'll keep it simple for now.